SOCCER: Salah inspires Egypt to beat New Zealand 3-1 for historic World Cup win

VANCOUVER — Mohamed Salah inspired Egypt to their first-ever World Cup victory, as they came from a goal down to defeat New Zealand 3-1 in a thrilling Group G encounter on Sunday.

After a quiet first half that ended with Egypt trailing, the North African side shifted gears after the break, with Salah leading a decisive attacking surge that overwhelmed New Zealand’s defense. The result sent Egypt to the top of Group G and strengthened their bid for a place in the knockout stage.

“It’s a great achievement for all the players. It’s a great win. It’s a great vibe. The next game is very important,” Salah said, as he celebrated with his teammates after the final whistle.

Egypt, who opened their campaign with a 1-1 draw against Belgium, now have four points from two matches. New Zealand, held to a 2-2 draw by Iran in their opener, remain at the bottom of the group with one point. Earlier on Sunday, Belgium were held to a 0-0 draw by Iran.

New Zealand struck first in the 28th minute, executing a simple but effective game plan built on direct play and set pieces. Defender Finn Surman broke the deadlock from a corner, losing his marker before heading powerfully into the net.

Egypt responded after the break with increased intensity. Their equalizer came in the 58th minute when Mostafa Zico headed in Mohamed Hany’s cross from the right flank to bring the match level.

Momentum fully shifted minutes later. Salah broke down the right wing, exchanged a quick one-two with Zico, and calmly slotted the ball into the far corner to give Egypt the lead in the 67th minute.

Egypt continued to press, with Salah nearly adding a second in the 81st minute after cutting inside and firing a deflected shot just over the bar. However, he later turned provider from the resulting corner, as substitute Mahmoud Trezeguet dived in to head home at the near post and seal the win.

New Zealand pushed in the closing stages but suffered a setback when Hossam Abdelmaguid was forced off with a suspected concussion after his eye visibly swelled following an impact.

By the 10th minute of stoppage time, the Egyptian supporters were urging the referee to end the match as the outcome became certain.

When the final whistle finally came, a loud roar erupted as Egypt celebrated a historic World Cup win. Coach Hossam Hassan later walked around the stadium draped in the Egyptian flag, acknowledging the traveling supporters and the milestone victory. -Reporting by Philip O'Connor and Pearl Josephine Nazare in Vancouver; Editing by Ken Ferris/Reuters